Best Local Hertfordshire Splash Parks for Babies, Toddlers and Young Families to Visit this Summer - Written by a Baldock Newborn, Family Photographer
May 13, 2025
4 min read
Oh hello sunshine! What a fun time of the year, creating memories with your children that they'll cherish for years to come - These are 'the Good old days' right here, right now!
When the sun comes out in Hertfordshire, there’s nothing quite like a splash park to keep babies and toddlers entertained and cool. As a family and newborn photographer based in Baldock, I know a hot topic at the moment for local parents is looking for places to enjoy the outdoors with their little ones - especially spots that are fun, safe, and age appropriate. So if you’re in or around Baldock and wondering where to take your toddler for a fun water play day, here’s a list of the best splash parks nearby, perfect for young families!
🌊 1. Splashlands – Stanborough Park, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire (20 minutes from Baldock)
Why it’s great: Splashlands is a fantastic spot for family fun, featuring a 600m² splash pad with a gently winding paddling river. With 67 interactive water jets—some reaching up to 1.5m high—and dedicated toddler and kid zones, it ensures fun for all ages.
Opening hours:
Open daily from 10:00am to 6:00pm,
from Saturday, April 29 until Sunday, September 15.
Facilities:
Free entry
No need to pre-book (first come, first served)
Refreshment kiosk serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and ice creams
Public toilets and changing facilities open from 9:00am to 6:00pm
Nautical-themed adventure playground with a large pirate ship and a variety of play equipment for children of all ages
Top tip: It’s ideal for morning playdates or a relaxed afternoon. Bring a towel, a change of clothes, and enjoy a picnic on the grass after some splashy fun.
💦 2. Howard Park & Gardens – Letchworth, Hertfordshire (5 minutes from Baldock)
Why it’s great: This local favourite is just a stone’s throw from Baldock and perfect for toddlers. The splash pad is clean, free to enter, and part of a charming park that also includes a playground, picnic benches, and a family-friendly café.
Opening hours:
Open daily from 10:00am to 6:00pm,
from Saturday, April 29 until Sunday, September 15.
Top tip: It’s ideal for morning playdates or a relaxed afternoon. Bring a towel, a change of clothes, and enjoy a picnic on the grass after some splashy fun.
☀️ 3. Priory Memorial Gardens – Royston, Hertfordshire (15 minutes from Baldock)
Why it’s worth the drive: Royston’s splash park is simple but effective—perfect for toddlers who love to get wet and run around. The surrounding gardens are beautifully maintained, and there’s a play area and plenty of space to relax.
Opening hours:
Open daily from 10:00am to 6:00pm,
from Saturday, April 29 until Sunday, September 15.
Photographer’s tip: The gardens make a stunning backdrop for casual family photos if you bring your camera along, or just pop portrait mode on you phone camera
💦4. Fairlands Valley Splash Park – Stevenage, Hertfordshire (15 minutes from Baldock)
Why families love it: Fairlands Valley Park is a 120-acre green space offering a free-to-use splash park with interactive water features, fountains, and a food kiosk for those essential ice creams in this heat! The park also includes four lakes, a sailing centre, and various outdoor activities.
Opening hours:
Open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm,
from Saturday, May 25 until the end of the summer holidays.
Facilities:
Free entry
Interactive water features and fountains
Food kiosk
Public toilets and changing facilities
Four lakes and various outdoor activities
Top tip: It's a great spot for a full day out with the family, combining water play with picnicking and exploring the park's other amenities.
☀️ 3. Verulamium Splash Park – St Albans, Hertfordshire (30 minutes from Baldock)
Why it’s worth the drive: Located in the historic Verulamium Park, this splash park offers a delightful water play area surrounded by beautiful scenery. It's perfect for families looking to enjoy both water fun and a stroll through one of St Albans' most picturesque parks.
Opening hours:
Open daily from 10:00am to 6:00pm,
from Monday, July 15 until Sunday, September 8.
Facilities:
Free entry
Water fountains and interactive features
Close proximity to Verulamium Park's attractions
Public toilets nearby
Top tip: Combine your visit with a walk around the park's Roman ruins or a visit to the nearby cafés or shops for a relaxed family day out.
👶 Why Splash Parks Are Perfect for Toddlers
No deep water = safer play for little ones
Great for sensory development
Encourages movement and interaction
Helps beat the summer heat without heading too far from home
📸 Capture the Moments
As a local photographer, I believe everyday fun makes the best memories. Those cheeky grins and soggy curls - these are the moments worth capturing!
🧺 Don’t Forget to Pack:
Swimsuit or spare clothes
Towels
Snacks and drinks
Sun cream and hats
Water shoes (for hot or slippery surfaces)
Final Thoughts, From your local Family Photographer
Living in or near Baldock means you’re perfectly placed to enjoy some of Hertfordshire’s best toddler-friendly splash parks. Whether it’s a midweek treat or a weekend family outing, these nearby parks are perfect for making memories and maybe snapping a few lovely photos along the way.
Looking for more local family tips or photo inspiration? Follow along for more guides like this one.
I'd love to help Capture more frame worthy photographs of your family! Check out my Session Guides for more information.
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Location: Baldock, Hertfordshire
- Easy access to A1M, Stevenage, Welwyn Garden City, St. Albans, Hatfield,
Luton, Hitchin, Letchworth, Biggleswade, Royston, Sandy and surrounding areas.